Best Elliptical Under $200

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Whether you want to lose weight at home, or are simply looking for an alternative to running, an elliptical can become your favorite companion when it comes to your home fitness. But with so many different products available, it can be a challenge finding the best option while still staying under the 200 dollar budget mark.

So to help you with your search, we compared multiple products to find you the best elliptical under 200 dollars. We will also help you identify what to look for when choosing your machine and answer common questions around the topic of ellipticals.

Let’s dive right in!

Comparison Chart

EXERPEUTIC 2000XL Bluetooth Smart Cloud Fitness High Capacity Elliptical Trainer with Goal Setting and Free App
Doufit Elliptical Machine for Home Use, Eliptical Exercise Machine for Indoor Fitness Gym Workout, Adjustable Magnetic Elliptical Cross Trainer with LCD Monitor and Pulse Sensors (Basic)
Sunny Health & Fitness SF-E905 Elliptical Machine Cross Trainer with 8 Level Resistance and Digital Monitor , Gray, White, 28 L x 17 W x 57 H
Marcy Magnetic Elliptical Trainer Cardio Workout Machine with Transport Wheels NS-40501E
Body Rider Body Flex Sports Elliptical Exercise Machine, at-Home Exercise Equipment Black/Green/Silver ,One Size

Best Elliptical Under 200 Dollars: Product Reviews

1.Exerpeutic

The Exerpeutic Elliptical is one of the sturdiest budget elliptical trainers we have seen for under $200. Its heavy-duty materials support users up to 300lbs while remaining compact and easy to store away when needed with its transport wheels. It also offers dual directional pedals that will track your exercise backwards and forwards.

Some key features we liked are the large LCD display that tracks your distance, speed, heart rate, time and calories burned. Because it doesn’t require electricity to be powered, it’s incredibly quiet to use and has 8 resistance levels for continued progression as you get fitter over time.

We were also impressed with the large pedals that give additional grip and support to taller users with bigger feet or those who like to shift their feet around for improved balance.

Pros

  • Sturdy. Up to 300lbs weight capacity
  • Compact with easy transportation wheels
  • Dual Directional (Go forwards and backwards)
  • Very quiet to use
  • 8 level magnetic tension wheel
  • Large pedals
  • Dual action handles for upper body workout
  • Large LCD display
  • Great fitness progression

Cons

  • Prone to developing a squeak without regular greasing

Key Takeaway

Our key takeaway from this machine is that it is built to a high level of quality for the cost. For under $200 this is one of the sturdiest budget elliptical machines with a number of key features you’d usually only find on a more expensive model. 

2.Doufit Elliptical Machine

The MaxKare elliptical trainer certainly has the edge on simplicity. The foam-covered, ergonomically designed dual-action handlebars and large textured pedals make for a comfortable and safe workout. A 13-inch stride length gives more of a gliding effect on your gait, something compact elliptical trainers often struggle to offer. 

This elliptical comes with all the additional extras including a device holder and a pulse monitor to track your heart rate, calories burned, speed, as well as time. The maximum weight the machine can support is up to 250lbs, which is impressive for a machine only weighing at 61lbs.

The MaxKare elliptical also has wheels that allow you to transport it around with ease and is also one of the most compact options on our list. What we also like about this budget elliptical is it operates very quietly, so you can exercise without distracting anyone while at home.

Pros

  • Comfortable, ergonomic dual action handles
  • Sustains up to 250lbs in weight.
  • Quiet functionality.
  • 8 levels of resistance
  • Large textured pedals for additional grip
  • LCD computer display to track progress
  • Pulse monitor on fixed handlebars
  • Affordable and good value for money
  • Straightforward assembly
  • 13inch stride

Cons

  • Multiple customers addressed issues concerning assembly as they found it difficult and time consuming.

Key Takeaway

Our key takeaway for the MaxKare elliptical is that for the cost not only do you get a sturdy machine, but they throw in all the extras which are often not included in budget models. In a nutshell, you are getting great value for the money!

3.Sunny

Sunny Health & Fitness offers the most compact and lightweight budget elliptical on the market that can support users up to 220lbs. While the 11inch stride length might not suit taller users, we have found this machine to provide enough of a challenge with its 8 resistance levels.

This machine offers the additional feature of a water bottle holder as well as being quick and easy to assemble. Due to its size and lightweight frame, it is super easy to move and store.

Pros

  • Very compact and lightweight
  • Supports users up to 220lbs
  • Water Bottle Holder
  • 8 levels magnetic tension resistance
  • Challenging resistance levels
  • Quick and easy assembly
  • Easy to move around and store away
  • 11inch stride length

Cons

  • Not ideal for taller people due to its compact size
  • Sturdiness can be compromised for users over 200lbs

Key Takeaway

This is the smallest and lightest machine of its kind that we have reviewed. Though it won’t suit taller or heavier users, if you’re looking to get a sweat on at home for a low price to increase or maintain your fitness, then this machine won’t disappoint.

4.Marcy

This Marcy elliptical is the smaller, lighter sister of the ME-1017E. As a result, it is cheaper but it also has fewer extras. What it does have is the trademark Marcy ergonomic foam covered handles and oversized textured pedals for ultimate comfort when you workout. It can also handle a bit more weight, supporting users up to 300lbs.

While this model doesn’t sport a pulse monitor or bottle holder like other models, it does still have a device holder, 8 levels of resistance and an LCD display to track your distance, time and calories. So if you’re more about bang for your buck and not fussed about frills, then this is the machine we’d recommend.

Pros

  • Ergonomic vinyl covered foam handles for ultra comfort
  • Sturdy frame holding users of up to 300lbs
  • Oversized pedals for safer training and comfort
  • 14inch stride length
  • Quiet to use making watching TV or listening to music easy
  • Tablet/device holder
  • Straightforward assembly
  • Space saver and transport wheels make it easy to manoeuvre

Cons

  • No pulse monitor
  • No water bottle holder
  • Watching on your device will block the LCD display

Key Takeaway

You get pretty much everything the more expensive versions of this machine offer except for the heart rate monitor and bottle holder, but it does support more weight. So if you wear a fitness tracker and add a bottle holder yourself, this machine is exceptional value for money.

5.Body RiderFan

The Body Rider is the lightest elliptical you can buy in the budget range that we’ve reviewed. It’s incredibly compact given it uses a chain fan for power. The chain-driven fan is incredibly quiet meaning you won’t be disturbed listening to music or watching TV while you workout.

There is a resistance knob to increase difficulty, though it’s not specifically numbered like other models. However, we found it still delivers an effective workout. It’s sturdy for the most part, but its lightweight frame can make it unstable for heavier users. It also has an LCD display to track your time, distance and calories burned.

It is worth mentioning that we found a substantial forward tilt when on the machine, with feet pointing down at an acute angle. Multiple users have reported this as well and found the machine uncomfortable to use, causing numb toes or sore knees. However, it seems commonplace to use a raised block under the front end to level it out, and this solved the issue for the majority of users.

Pros

  • Lightest and most compact budget elliptical
  • Adjustable resistance knob
  • Very quiet to use using chain driven wheel fan for power
  • Dual action handlebars for upper and lower body workout
  • Strong and secure packaging
  • Straightforward assembly
  • Includes workout video guide for new user
  • A great starter machine for beginners
  • Reliable and value for money

Cons

  • Substantial forward tilt feeling. Users have placed a block under the front to level the height.
  • Forward tilting pedals can cause joint pain, sore feet or numb toes
  • Does not glide like other elliptical machines so not ideal for those with knee problems
  • Not suitable for heavier individuals

Key Takeaway

If you want a budget elliptical that’s compact, light, and a great starter machine, then the Body Rider will provide everything you need. Just be sure to test the angle if you can ahead of purchase to see if the forward tilt will cause you any issues.

Our Top Pick, And Why!

Out top pick for the best treadmill under 200 dollars is no other than the Exerpeutic heavy-duty elliptical. 

It is by far the sturdiest machine on our list for your budget and offers every practical feature necessary to track your progress.

This elliptical is a great option for anyone who is seeking a heavy-duty elliptical that is compact and can support heavier individuals.

Read also: Best Elliptical Under $300

F.A.Q

What Should I Look For When Buying An Elliptical?

Choosing the best elliptical can be a challenge if you don’t know what to look for. So, to better help you make an informed and educated decision when shopping, we listed some key factors to consider when selecting your machine.

Warranty

One of the most important factors to look out for when choosing an elliptical is the warranty. Because there are so many moving parts, having a long warranty will allow for the product manufacturer to look after your repairs which can save you a lot of money in the long run.

A long warranty can also be a good way to measure the quality of a product. Companies who can afford to provide a longer warranty are most likely confident that the product will last a long time without having any issues.

Size

Elliptical machines come in a variety of different sizes. Depending on where you want to place you elliptical, having it take up less space can make more room for other exercise equipment when building your home gym. Dimensions can typically be found on the products main website page, or by the seller.  

Ergonomics

Unlike a treadmill that allows you to move freely, an elliptical limits your movements while you use it. Make sure that you feel comfortable when using your machine and that your movements don’t restrict you from using the elliptical properly.

Your elliptical should also allow you to have proper posture and the handgrips should not force your wrists into an awkward position. Also, the pedals should be close together and the arm handles should not force your elbows and arms to collide with your hips.

Features And Programs

Everyone has different goals which they want to accomplish when using their elliptical. Features such as measuring heart rate, calories burned, and distance, can all be a great way to track your progress. 

Different Ellipticals can allow you to program target goals which can help make your workouts less boring. Programs like manual, hill-climb, target heart rate and, interval, can allow for a better challenge which can propel you faster towards your goals.

Other features to consider can include having a water bottle holder and phone stand. These can allow you to easily access accessories while training so that you are not carrying them on your when exercising.

User Height And Weight

Every elliptical has a limit as to how much weight capacity it can withstand. This is crucial when purchasing your elliptical if you want to avoid damaging the machine. The maximum weight tolerance can often be found on the company website or in the description of the seller’s product page.

Height is also an important factor to look out for. How the handles are positioned and stride length will differ when comparing different machines. Ensuring that your machine can accommodate your height will promote a more ergonomically friendly workout while preventing your elbows from clashing into your hips when performing each motion.

Noise

If you have family members or live in an apartment where noise can be a distraction, then going for a quieter elliptical may be in your best interest. 

Less noisy options will often have special chains that are fan-driven and dont use electricity, making them quieter when in use. The casing or shell that covers the mechanism can also be insulated, allowing for a much quieter workout.

Safety

Elliptical machines are known to be dangerous for pets and children because they have many cracks and open spaces between the moving parts. These hazards can increase the chances of getting pinched or caught.

Since these issues are difficult to avoid, people with children or pets should always keep them away from ellipticals to prevent injury. Keeping the doors locked or setting up the elliptical where it is difficult to access is the best way to ensure safety for your loved ones.

What Are The Benefits Of Using An Elliptical?

Ever wondered why you would choose an elliptical as your option for working out? Below we listed 5 benefits of training on an elliptical.

Great For Weight-Loss

Depending on your weight, the average amount of calories a person can burn on an elliptical is anywhere between 250 to 400 calories. Burning more calories will help you to lose weight and burn fat which can be increased depending on the intensity and length of your workout.

Less Stress On Joints

Unlike other forms of cardiovascular exercises like running and high-intensity interval training that requires jumping, using an elliptical can help you get the same returns while releasing your joints.

Studies have shown that training with an elliptical can reduces stress on joints such as your knees and ankles because it significantly minimizes weight-bearing. This can also be beneficial to those who are looking for a safer form of rehabilitation after injury.

Helps To Improve Balance

One way an elliptical can be used to improve balance is by letting go of the handles when exercising. Doing this will help target your core muscles which are responsible for stabilizing your body weight. Just make sure that you set the resistance and incline to a manageable level to prevent falling off or injuring yourself.

Provides An Upper And Lower Body Workout!

An elliptical trainer is one of the few cardio machines that offer the ability to work out both your upper and lower body. This is because it requires effort from both your arms and legs to push through the resistance which targets muscles such as your glutes, hamstrings, quads, triceps, biceps, and core muscles.

How Long Should I Be On The Elliptical?

According to MayoClinic, the average healthy adult should aim for at least 150 hours of moderate aerobic or cardio activity, or 75 higher intensity levels of activity each week. Higher levels of exercise will provide greater benefits when it comes to lowering the risk of heart disease and will improve your overall well-being.

So, how long should you be on an elliptical? 

The same rules apply as the recommended health guidelines for adults. There is no limit as to how long you can exercise using an elliptical trainer. In fact, the more you exercise on an elliptical, the more you will reap the health benefits. 

If your goal is to lose weight using an elliptical then HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training) is the best way to burn calories. This is a form of exercise that is performed at a higher level of intensity which causes your body to reach a higher metabolic state, therefore helping you burn fat for a longer duration of time. 

Performing a HIIT workout for 20 to 45 minutes a day can even help your body to shred fat for several hours after you have completed your workout.

On the other hand, if your intent is to simply maintain a good level of overall health, then exercising 30 to 45 minutes a day on an elliptical at a moderate level is enough.

Does An Elliptical Help Slim Your Thighs?

Yes, exercising on an elliptical can help slim your thighs if a proper level of intensity and duration is practiced when working out.

Many people are afraid that their thighs may actually grow in size due to working the lower body consistently on an elliptical. This is true if you are performing higher intensity workouts and are implementing a high protein diet. 

However, if you want to slim your thighs using an elliptical, it is recommended that you perform moderate level workouts for a longer duration of time. A good target to aim for is setting a goal of at least 300 minutes a week and implementing a low-calorie diet.

Will An Elliptical Help With Cellulite?

Exercising on an elliptical may help reduce the appearance of cellulite, but will not eliminate it entirely. Any exercise that helps you burn calories and promotes fat loss can help tighten your skin, therefore minimizing the appearance of dimples.

Fat loss can also help remove toxins under the second layer of tissue beneath the skin called the dermis, which can also minimize the appearance of cellulite. 

Combining exercise with natural methods of skin treatment such as the use of cellulite massagers and essential oils for cellulite may significantly decrease the visibility of dimples. However, there is no guarantee that these methods will work unless tested, as everyone’s skin and genetic structure are different.

Which Is Better, An Elliptical Or A Treadmill?

Is exercising on an elliptical better than on a treadmill, or is it the other way around? The answer is dependent on your goals and personal preference. With that being said, there are a  few advantages of using an elliptical over a treadmill.

Working out on an elliptical helps reduce weight bearing on your joints whereas running on a treadmill can cause your knees and ankles to take more of a beating. The second benefit of Training on an elliptical is its ability to work your upper and lower body at the same time, where a treadmill only targets your core and leg muscles.

But, what about treadmills?

Although treadmills can be harder on your body, they do have their own set of advantages when comparing to elliptical machines. One benefit is that treadmills help burn more calories because they require you to use up more energy.

If you are competing in a race, treadmills are definitely the better way to go, as they provide multiple incline options while giving you the ability to better track your progress. 

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